Indonesia Urges Migrant Workers to Uphold Professionalism

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is reinforcing its commitment to protecting migrant workers while urging them to maintain professionalism and responsibility as they prepare for overseas employment.

Minister of Indonesian Migrant Workers Protection (P2MI) Mukhtarudin reminded departing workers not to abandon their contracts and stressed that official channels remain the only guarantee of state protection.

“Do not resign or run away from your responsibilities. Official channels are the only guarantee of protection from the state,” he said during a pre-departure orientation and send-off event for the government-to-government (G to G) program to South Korea in Depok, West Java, on Monday, April 27, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

Data at the Ministry of P2MI shows that 210 Indonesian migrant workers -- 150 in manufacturing and 60 in fisheries -- are set to depart for South Korea. Meanwhile, 43 prospective mirant workers have begun their pre-departure orientation as part of preparation for overseas employment.

Minister Mukhtarudin emphasized that the government is fully committed to strengthening migrant worker protection in line with directives from President Prabowo Subianto.

He noted that protection measures cover all stages, from pre-departure and employment abroad to return home. “The state is always present to provide protection services. This is not merely a ceremony, but a reflection of your hard work and perseverance,” he added.

The minister highlighted that 6,860 Indonesian workers were placed in South Korea in 2025, while also noting that 3,663 participants in the G to G program had resigned from employers between 2021 and early March 2026.

He described the pre-departure orientation as a crucial step to prepare workers in terms of skills, mental readiness, and understanding of working conditions abroad. “This departure is not the end of your journey, but the beginning. Continue learning, building international networks, and improving your capacity for your family and the nation,” he continued.

The minister also urged workers to comply with regulations in host countries, maintain strong performance, and avoid risks such as online gambling and digital scams. “Make the most of this opportunity to enhance your competencies so that you can return with valuable skills for the nation’s welfare,” he concluded. ***